Obstetric Anal Sphincter Injuries (OASIS)
OASIS injuries can be a significant complication of vaginal deliveries.
Obstetric Anal Sphincter Injuries
Obstetric Anal Sphincter Injuries (OASIS) are significant complications of vaginal delivery involving damage to the anal sphincter complex. Injuries include third-degree tears, where the anal sphincter is partially or fully damaged, and fourth-degree tears, which extend to the rectal mucosa.
Short-term complications may include:
- Perineal pain: Discomfort in the area between the vagina and anus.
- Wound infections: Due to the complexity of the injury and its location.
- Fistula formation: Abnormal connections between the vagina and rectum, which may result in the leakage of stool.
Long-term complications may include:
- Dyspareunia: Pain during sexual intercourse.
- Chronic pain: Persistent discomfort in the pelvic region.
- Fecal urgency and incontinence: Difficulty controlling bowel movements, leading to distress and lifestyle changes.
- Pelvic organ prolapse: Weakening of pelvic floor muscles, causing organs to descend into the vaginal canal.
Classification of Perineal Injuries
Classification | Injury |
---|---|
1St Degree | Tear involving Vaginal epithelium |
2nd Degree | Tear to the perineal muscles but not involving the Anal Sphincter |
3rd Degree | Any involvement with the Anal Sphincter |
3A | Less than 50% External Anal Sphincter Tear |
3B | More than 50% of External Anal Sphincter Tea |
3C | Internal Anal Sphincter Tear |
4th Degree | Tear to the perineum involving Anal Sphincter Complex and Anorectal Mucosa |
Diagnose OASIS With Ultrasound
Endoanal ultrasound is an important diagnostic tool for assessing these injuries. Studies show that about one-third of OASIS cases can be diagnosed by this method even eight weeks postpartum. Proper diagnosis and treatment are critical to managing the immediate and long-term consequences of these injuries.
Halo’s pelvic floor ultrasound machine, partnered with our Midcrystal 360˚ Endoanal Probe 2D/3D, offers advanced diagnostic capabilities for evaluating Obstetric Anal Sphincter Injuries (OASIS).
This powerful tool provides high-resolution, comprehensive images, allowing for precise assessment of the extent of sphincter and tissue damage following vaginal delivery.
Ultrasound Benefits
Benefits of using this technology include:
- Short exam times: Efficient scans minimize discomfort for the patient and reduce time in the clinic.
- Clear imaging: Detailed 360-degree views of the pelvic floor and anal sphincter complex ensure accurate diagnosis.
- Personalized care: The clarity of the images enables healthcare providers to tailor treatment plans according to the specific injury, improving patient outcomes.
Ultrasound Probes
Halo ultrasound probes are designed to identify anal fistula.